Ronald Koeman hopes Nathaniel Clyne stays at Southampton but said he can understand interest from other clubs.

The 23-year-old defender has emerged as a summer target for Manchester United as Louis van Gaal looks to bring in a right-back.

Clyne has excelled for Koeman's side this season, and was given his first start for England in a November qualifier against Slovenia.

With his Saints contract running out in 2016, the full-back will discuss his future at the club this week according to his manager.

"The contact is between Les Reed [Southampton’s executive director] and the agent and Clyne, but I think after Wednesday it's a good time to talk about that of course, we like to know what his decision is about the future," Koeman told reporters.

"I hope [he will stay], but I can understand if there is any interest from other clubs. We don't have really a serious bid.

"It's not I think the most difficult position. Normally the left-back position is more difficult to find good players.

"But, even the right full-back position, there are not a lot who have played on the level as Clyne has been doing this season."

The right-back has previously mentioned he is happy to wait until April before making a decision on his future, with United among a number of clubs interested.

Van Gaal raided Southampton last summer to shore up the other side of his defence, signing Luke Shaw for £30m, although injuries have restricted the left-back to just 14 starts for the club.